ABDO centenary celebrations
In 2026, ABDO marks the 100th anniversary of the profession and its predecessor, the Association of Dispensing Opticians.
“This truly is a landmark year for the Association,” said ABDO president, Kevin Gutsell, “a chance to shine a light on dispensing opticians and the invaluable work they undertake in primary eyecare practice alongside their colleagues.
“While we will be looking to the past, we will also be looking towards the future – showcasing the fantastic work that our members do every day in practice as well as in education, industry and the hospital eye service. But we need members to get involved – and become part of these important celebrations,” Kevin continued.
“This could be submitting a memorable case study, sharing our campaign on your social media channels, using our specially-created 100 years logos, or being featured in a member profile. You could also take part in our ‘100 voices’ project, sharing your thoughts on being a dispensing optician, contact lens optician.
“I’m delighted to be also taking part in a practice visits project, travelling around the country to call into as many practices as I can during the year,” continued Kevin. “These visits can be requested through our 100 Years webpage and will be undertaken where possible by myself, our CEO Alistair Bridge or our vice president, Brenda Rennie.
“Our aim is to make it to 100 practice visits by the end of the year, so do get in touch and take this opportunity to connect with your Association. Each visit will be supported with an ABDO press release, giving you a chance to showcase your practice and add even more value to the experience,” Kevin added.
Ways to get involved
Other ways for members to get involved include staging a 100 years-themed charity fundraiser and then submitting it to Dispensing Optics/DO Online to share, or submitting a patient case history showcasing the dispensing and clinical skills of DOs and CLOs. These can be on any topic in any sphere, with prizes to be awarded in various categories at the end of the year.
The Association is also planning a range of centenary activities for 100% Optical 2026, taking place from 28 February to 2 March at the London Excel. This includes the launch of an historical timeline showing the evolution of the profession through the decades, along with giveaways and competitions.
All members, including students, are invited to join ABDO’s social media campaign “to showcase the passion behind the profession”.
“To see your name and profession in lights, all you need to do is complete a short form and upload a headshot – then we’ll handle the rest,” explained Gavin Berkerey, ABDO director of communications and engagement. “We will then feature your profile throughout the year as part of our celebrations, and highlight the brilliant work of our members.”
100 Years logo design
Members have voted on their preferred commemorative logos to be used throughout the year. The winning designs incorporate the ABDO lozenge graphic, with both a round and rectangular option (shown below). The logos will be available to download from the 100 Years campaign webpage from 6 January – and will be ideal to use on email signatures, practice headed paper, social media channels and the practice website.
Centenary merchandise
ABDO also asked members to select their preferred merchandise materials featuring the centenary design, and pens, tote bags, notepads, mugs and pin badges will be available to purchase soon.
Other ABDO branded items currently in stock, which can be personalised, include cleaning cloths, USB sticks and name badges. These can be ordered today by visiting the ABDO shop.
All centenary celebration updates and requests will be communicated regularly through ABDO e-newsletters from 6 January 2026.
If not registered for these, email membership@abdo.org.uk